It doesn’t take thousands to build a great watch collection. In fact, some of the most fun, iconic, and interesting watches are well under the $500 mark. From modern classics to quirky conversation starters, this list rounds up the best affordable watches every collector—whether just starting out or seasoned—should consider.
If you’re on the lookout for affordable automatic watches or just a budget piece that stands out, we’ve got you covered with 10 watches that prove craftsmanship and character aren’t reserved for luxury price tags.
1. Orient Bambino
MSRP: $240 USD
The Orient Bambino feels like a rite of passage. When it comes to the best affordable dress watches, few do it better for less. With its domed crystal, vintage-inspired design, and in-house automatic movement, the Bambino punches well above its price. Orient is frequently mentioned when it comes to the best affordable watch brands, and for good reason!
2. Casio F91W
MSRP: $25 USD
The Casio F91W is among the most iconic affordable watches of all time. It’s digital, lightweight, and brings a nostalgic ‘90s energy. The Casio F91W is proof that it doesn’t need to cost a lot to get a high-quality and reliable watch that’s worthy of daily wear. Bonus: the battery lasts for years.
This Casio F91W is our top pick when it comes to the best affordable watches under $50.
3. Casio G-Shock DW5600
MSRP: $75 USD
Want a rugged digital watch that can take a beating and continue to tick? This is another iconic budget watch among the best Casio affordable watches. Comfortable, stealthy, and NASA-approved, The G-Shock DW5600 is an essential piece for any watch collection and one of the best affordable watches under $100.
4. Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical
MSRP: $495 USD
The Hamilton Khaki Field is a gateway into Swiss-made mechanical watches at an approachable price point as well as a top candidate among the best affordable watches under $500. With its military roots and reliable hand-wound movement, it’s both heritage-rich and extremely wearable. When it comes to the best affordable watches for men, this one’s hard to top.
5. Seiko 5 Sports “5KX”
MSRP: $295 USD
A successor to the legendary SKX007 and part of the Seiko 5 Sport series, the 5KX brings back almost everything we loved—bezel, case shape, presence—but modernizes it with a wide range of new dial options and an updated movement. It might not be ISO-certified, but it remains one of the top affordable dive watches around.
And If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the many references and nicknames for Seiko dive watches, here’s our guide to help navigate some of the most iconic Seiko monikers with ease.
6. Mr Jones “A Perfectly Useless Afternoon”
MSRP: $250 USD
Quirky, artistic, and unlike anything else, Mr Jones Watches are the definition of affordable unique watches. This model — “A Perfectly Useless Afternoon” designed by Kristof Devos and featuring a floating character relaxing in a pool—is a fan favorite. Don’t expect traditional hands here. This one’s about making a statement, not just telling time.
7. Dan Henry 1964 Gran Turismo
MSRP: $280 USD
Here vintage motorsport design meets modern reliability. The Dan Henry 1964 Gran Turismo is quartz-driven with a Seiko Meca-quartz movement and offers superb dial detailing with a bunch of variations to choose from. It’s a prime example of affordable watches that deliver vintage style without the vintage hassle.
8. Citizen Tsuyosa
MSRP: $450 USD
With its sleek integrated bracelet, automatic movement and a ton of dial options to choose from, The Citizen Tsuyosa wears like a luxury sports watch but comes in at a fraction of the price. It’s a rising star among affordable integrated bracelet watches and a certified sleeper hit.
Plus, it wears great with a fitted FKM rubber strap.
9. Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80
MSRP: $450 USD
Elegant, understated, and a definite GADA watch, the Tissot Gentleman gives you 80 hours of power reserve and Swiss automatic credibility without breaking the bank. With its refined case and versatile design, it bridges the gap between sporty and dressy effortlessly.
10. Sugess Tourbillon
MSRP: $450 USD
Looking for the cheapest tourbillon watch that doesn’t just exist as a gimmick? Sugess brings the ultra-high-end tourbillon complication to a budget-friendly price point. While you may not get Geneva stripes or Patek-level finishing, you will get a true mechanical marvel on your wrist at a shocking price point.
Collecting watches doesn’t have to be reserved for the ultra-wealthy. These watches prove that craftsmanship, style, and even mechanical magic can be accessible to everyone. Whether you’re just starting or looking to add variety to your box, these timepieces from some of the best affordable watch brands offer something for every wrist and budget.
And once you’ve found your perfect piece, make it your own with a fresh strap from StrapsCo—because nothing personalizes a watch like the perfect band.
Got a favorite from the list or a recommendation of your own? Let us know below!
